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The smaller, regional banks tend to have lower fees than the jumbo national institutions—but they offer a strong local, on-the-ground presence for people who want something more personal than an online-only experience. To be a winner in this category, a bank needed to offer a checking account with easily waived fees. (See the "Standout Checking" account for each.) We also looked for above-average interest on savings and favorable customer service ratings, where possible. (If you don't see a regional winner with a presence in your state, look at our big-bank winners and our picks for best online bank and credit union.) —Megan Leonhardt and Alicia Adamczyk